Bill Dodgin 1949-1953

When the Second Division title was won, Fulham turned to Southampton, the team that was pipped at the post for promotion, for a new Team Manager.

The 39-year-old Bill Dodgin had enjoyed a successful spell at The Dell since his appointment, his first as a manager, in June 1946.

Before the Second World War, he had been a wing-half with Huddersfield Town, Lincoln City, Charlton Athletic, Bristol Rovers, Clapton Orient and Southampton.

As Manager of Fulham, he found it tough going. After two seasons of struggle, they were relegated in the third. Dodgin was given another season in charge but mid-table in 1952/53 was not good enough and in the autumn he was on his way, first to Brentford and then Sampdoria.

From 1961 until his retirement in 1972, he was associated in various capacities with Bristol Rovers.